About me

PROFILE:

I have been writing poetry and stories since I was a child, and a love of reading was instilled in me from an early age. I am passionate about writing, and hope you enjoy the books I have written. Whilst most of you sleep soundly in your beds, like many Parkinson’s patients, insomnia dictates, so during those hours that sleep eludes me, the house is tranquil and quiet, an atmosphere perfect to immerse myself in writing. My life has been a series of strange events, which have without doubt contributed to my creativity. To publish anything is to bear one’s soul to the world. It is to stand naked and let everyone see who you really are. I have poured my heart and soul out on paper and I hope to share this journey, immersing you in a story, capturing your attention and firing the imagination. Through my writing and public speaking I hope to bring greater awareness to the general public about living with chronic disease.

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

“How are you?”

In general people are kind and thoughtful, and when asking “how are you?”
although I'm never entirely sure if they are just being polite and would prefer
a simple “ I'm fine thank you”, or if they really want to know. What bothers me
far more is that people don’t think to ask my husband, who is my caregiver. There
appears to be only one person who regularly asks my husband “and how are you?”
and this is our wonderful neurologist, who I thank my lucky stars that I am
under his expert care. Upon every visit, he always addresses my husband, and I
think his empathy and consideration mean a great deal to us both. So much focus
is generally on the patient, the caregiver is often left on the side lines,
when in fact they are an integral part of the picture. Some caregivers, given
half the chance, would love the opportunity to unload and talk about what they
are going through. Others, might prefer just to talk about anything except the
issue of care-giving for they live it 24/7 and need a break from its
suffocating effects. Each person is individual and deals with pressures and
concerns in their own way. Offering to help is always greatly accepted, but
only if it’s in a real and constructive way. Simply saying to someone “give me
a call if you need anything” is of no help whatsoever, as I can assure you,
someone in need will never pick up the phone and ask for help. What is greatly
appreciated is simple practical help. If for example you say “ I'm going to the
post office, do you need anything from there?” or “ I'm going to the
supermarket, do you need any groceries whilst I'm there?” This kind of immediate
direct offer is the best kind of help you can give a caregiver. Just helping
with a simple errand is much appreciated. So don’t wait to be asked – jump in
first and be proactive.